What is a neuroma?
A neuroma, also known as Morton’s neuroma, is a painful benign growth of nerve tissue that’s often located between your third and fourth toes. Symptoms of a neuroma include:
- A feeling of a pebble in your shoe
- Burning
- Tingling
- Numbness
- Pain between your toes when walking
- Pain in the ball of your foot
You might experience relief when you sit down, take off your shoes, or rub the affected area. Treatment can ease symptoms once and for all.
What are the risk factors for neuromas?
Anybody can develop a neuroma as it often occurs in response to pressure, injury, or irritation of nerves in your feet. The following factors increase your risk of neuromas:
- Wearing high heels
- Playing high-impact sports
- Repetitive running
- Having a bunion, hammertoe, flat feet, or high arches
- Being a woman
To lower your risk of developing a neuroma, wear comfortable shoes that aren’t too tight.
What is the treatment for neuromas?
A podiatrist at Central Jersey Ankle & Foot Care Specialists reviews your symptoms, examines your foot, and might recommend imaging tests (X-rays, ultrasounds, or MRIs) to diagnose Morton’s neuroma and establish the best treatment option for you. They may recommend:
Footwear changes
If you normally wear tight-fitting shoes or high heels, your doctor encourages you to wear comfortable, soft, loose-fitting shoes instead.
Rest and ice
If intense, repetitive physical activity is part of your daily routine, rest for a few weeks or try low-impact exercise to give the neuroma a chance to heal. Massaging the area with ice helps ease pain and decrease inflammation.
Medications and injections
Taking medications or receiving steroid injections helps reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort.
Arch supports and pads
Foot pads and arch supports that fit inside your shoe reduce pressure on nerves in your feet. Your doctor might recommend custom-made orthotics (shoe inserts) to accelerate your recovery.
Surgery
If you haven’t responded to conservative neuroma treatments, your doctor might recommend surgical removal of the nerve growth or surgery to relieve pressure on the nerve.
If you experience pain or limited mobility because of a neuroma, you don’t have to suffer through it. Call Central Jersey Ankle & Foot Care Specialists for an evaluation today or use the online scheduler.
